The RHS hoya growing guide describes two ways to propagate hoya: layering, and semi-ripe cuttings taken in spring or early summer. It says cuttings can be rooted in water in about two to three weeks and then potted into peat-free cuttings compost. It also says to wear gloves, since the sap irritates skin, and to take cuttings promptly if a plant develops root rot, because root rot often kills it.
Methods the RHS gives
| Topic | What the RHS says |
|---|---|
| Methods | Layering and semi-ripe cuttings |
| Timing | Spring or early summer |
| Rooting in water | About two to three weeks, then pot into peat-free cuttings compost |
| Safety | Wear gloves; the sap irritates skin |
| When to take cuttings | Promptly if root rot appears |
After rooting
Once rooted, the RHS says to pot cuttings into peat-free cuttings compost. For the mix a mature plant wants, see Best Potting Mix for Hoya, which covers the RHS bark, compost and perlite blend.
Why take cuttings as insurance
The RHS says overwatering or poor drainage can cause dropping leaves, blackening, dieback and root rot, and that root rot often kills the plant. Taking cuttings promptly at the first sign is therefore a way to keep the plant. The page does not say how many cuttings or leaf pairs per cutting to take.
What the page does not cover
The RHS page does not give a cutting length, number of nodes, use of rooting hormone, rooting temperature or humidity setup for hoya. Other sources may, but this page does not claim them. The Hoya hub is at Hoya Indoors.
Frequently asked questions
How long do hoya cuttings take to root in water?
About two to three weeks, according to the RHS.
When should I take hoya cuttings?
The RHS says semi-ripe cuttings are taken in spring or early summer.
Is hoya sap harmful?
The RHS says wear gloves, since the sap irritates skin.
Is hoya safe for pets?
The ASPCA lists a Hoya carnosa cultivar called wax plant as non-toxic to dogs and cats. See Pet-Safe Fragrant Houseplants.
Sources read for this page
Last reviewed 15 October 2026. Written by Md. Firozur Rahman. This page is based on one source and gives general guidance; see the Disclaimer.
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